Shingles

Question 1

What do patients initially experience

Answer 1

(prodronal phase) pain, tingling, itching

Question 2

what are some red flag symptoms

Answer 2

blisters on the nose/face - trigeminal nerve affected.
blurred vision, eye pain

inflammation of the brain
signs - severe headaches, altered mental state

Question 3

differentials

Answer 3

herpes simplex
insect bites
impetigo

Question 4

whats treatment and how do they work

Answer 4

inhibit viral replication
most affective given in 72 hours
aciclovir
valaciclovir

Question 5

why is the V drug better

Answer 5

pro drug
increased bioavailability

Question 6

what are the stages in respect to rash

Answer 6

red spots, fluid blisters then crusting - takes 3 - 4 weeks

Question 7

what can help with pain

Answer 7

cold compress, breathing techniques, gabapentin for neuropathic pain

Question 8

who can get the shingles vaccine

Answer 8

For those over the age of 50

Question 9

whos the service available for

Answer 9

non pregnant over the age of 18

Question 10

whats done for immunosuppressed

Answer 10

can be given valiciclovir
must inform the patients gp

Question 11

what does of methotrexate is classed as severely immunosuppressed and what does this mean

Answer 11

a dose of 20mg or more can’t be given valaciclovir or multiple immuno meds